 "Virat Kohli shows once again why he is the ‘Master of Chase’: ‘Even if the run rate is six an over, I am not bothered’")
India’s march into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final was spearheaded by none other than Virat Kohli, the man who has made chasing totals an art form. With his composed 84-run knock against Australia in the semi-final , Kohli once again proved why he is regarded as the ‘Master of Chase.’ Kohli had played an almost similar innings during the group-stage game against Pakistan, where he scored an unbeaten century.
Champions Trophy 2025: News | Schedule | Results | Points Table
Virat Kohli on his match-winning knock in CT 2025 semi-final
Reflecting on his innings at the post-match presentation, Kohli stated, “It was pretty similar to the other day against Pakistan. It is about understanding the conditions and rotating the strike because partnerships on this pitch are important. It all depends on the conditions and then I play my innings.”
One of the hallmarks of Kohli’s chases has been his ability to take the game deep. Unlike many who panic when the required run rate starts creeping up, Kohli remains resolute. “Even if the run rate is six an over, I am not bothered,” he said.
This mindset was evident in the way he anchored the innings. With wickets falling around him, Kohli ensured that the pressure never shifted onto India. He played risk-free cricket, hitting only five fours and zero sixes. His approach, coupled with vital contributions from Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya, meant India never lost control of the chase.
Kohli was also asked if this was one of his best knocks in a chase. “I don’t know. That is up to you guys to break down. I have never focused on those things. When you don’t think of those milestones, they happen. If I get to the three-figure mark, great, but the win is important. For me, those things don’t matter anymore.”
Impact Shorts
More ShortsIndia won the match against Australia by 4 wickets. This is the third consecutive Champions Trophy final appearance for India after 2013 and 2017. This is also the third consecutive time India have reached the final of an ICC tournament without losing a single game. The second semi-final is scheduled to be played between South Africa and New Zealand on 5 March in Lahore, Pakistan. The final is slated to be held in Dubai on 9 March.
 "Russian drones over Poland: Trump’s tepid reaction a wake-up call for Nato?")
 "As Russia pushes east, Ukraine faces mounting pressure to defend its heartland")
 "Why Mossad was not on board with Israel’s strike on Hamas in Qatar")
 "Turkey: Erdogan's police arrest opposition mayor Hasan Mutlu, dozens officials in corruption probe")
 "Russian drones over Poland: Trump’s tepid reaction a wake-up call for Nato?")
 "As Russia pushes east, Ukraine faces mounting pressure to defend its heartland")
 "Why Mossad was not on board with Israel’s strike on Hamas in Qatar")
 "Turkey: Erdogan's police arrest opposition mayor Hasan Mutlu, dozens officials in corruption probe")
